SDI Member · ANSI/SDI compliant
Steel purlin supplier in Sarasota
High-strength C & Z steel purlins in Sarasota for efficient roof and wall support.
Steel Purlins for Sarasota job sites
For job sites in Sarasota, Miami Metal Deck provides Steel Purlins cut to length and ready for installation, serving Sarasota County and the Southwest Florida region. Deliveries to Sarasota leave our Miami Gardens facility on a schedule set with your team, with 1-day service available to major Florida cities.
With Sarasota's coastal humidity and salt air, many engineers specify a G90 galvanized finish for its heavier zinc coating; we confirm the finish against your project specifications. We supply to the gauges, lengths and finishes on your approved drawings, which are designed to the Florida Building Code requirements that apply in Sarasota County.
Product guide
Product specifications for your Sarasota project
Compare profiles, dimensions, material options and applications to prepare your order. Select a product below to explore its technical details.
C Purlin
The roof and wall systems on commercial buildings rely on C purlin for its combination of high strength and light weight. The C-shaped profile runs from 12 GA to 20 GA in a range of depths and gauges, conforms to ANSI standards, and comes with G60 and G90 galvanized finishes.
Dimensions and profile
| Property | Dimension |
|---|---|
| Commercial Name | C Purlin |
| Gauge | 12 to 20 |
| Thickness | 0.039" to 0.094" |
| Weights | 1.2 to 6.78 lbs/ft |
| Size Range | C4x2 to C12x3 |
| Web Depths | 4 to 12 inches |
| Flanges | 2 to 3 inches |
Sizes run from C4x2 to C12x3, with web depths of 4 to 12 inches. Gauges 12 through 20 (0.039" to 0.094" thick) give weights of 1.2 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flange widths are 2 to 3 inches, and lip dimensions reach 0.787 inches.
Sizes, thicknesses and weights
| Purlin Size | Thickness | Weight (lbs/ft) | Gauge | Web | Flange | Lip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C12x3-12 | 0.094 | 6.78 | 12 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C12x3-14 | 0.075 | 5.4 | 14 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C10x3-12 | 0.094 | 5.48 | 12 | 10 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C10x3-14 | 0.075 | 4.37 | 14 | 10 | 3 | 0.709 |
| C8x3-12 | 0.094 | 4.87 | 12 | 8 | 3 | 0.787 |
| C8x3-14 | 0.075 | 3.86 | 14 | 8 | 3 | 0.709 |
| C8x3-16 | 0.059 | 3.02 | 16 | 8 | 3 | 0.591 |
| C6x2.5-12 | 0.094 | 3.83 | 12 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.709 |
| C6x2.5-14 | 0.075 | 3.03 | 14 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.669 |
| C6x2.5-16 | 0.059 | 2.41 | 16 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.630 |
| C6x2.5-18 | 0.047 | 1.94 | 18 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.591 |
| C5x2-12 | 0.094 | 3.19 | 12 | 5 | 2 | 0.630 |
| C5x2-14 | 0.075 | 2.5 | 14 | 5 | 2 | 0.630 |
| C5x2-16 | 0.059 | 1.99 | 16 | 5 | 2 | 0.591 |
| C5x2-18 | 0.047 | 1.59 | 18 | 5 | 2 | 0.591 |
| C5x2-20 | 0.039 | 1.35 | 20 | 5 | 2 | 0.591 |
| C4x2-20 | 0.039 | 1.20 | 20 | 4 | 2 | 0.472 |
| C4x2-18 | 0.047 | 1.41 | 18 | 4 | 2 | 0.472 |
| C4x2-16 | 0.059 | 1.76 | 16 | 4 | 2 | 0.512 |
| C4x2-14 | 0.075 | 2.21 | 14 | 4 | 2 | 0.512 |
| C4x2-12 | 0.094 | 2.82 | 12 | 4 | 2 | 0.512 |
Gauges and thicknesses
| Gauge | Bare steel thickness (in) | Weight (lbs/ft) | Typical applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 0.094 | Up to 6.78 lbs/ft | Heavy structural applications, large spans. |
| 14 | 0.075 | Up to 5.4 lbs/ft | Standard commercial structural support. |
| 16 | 0.059 | Up to 3.02 lbs/ft | Medium-duty roof and wall support. |
| 18 | 0.047 | Up to 1.94 lbs/ft | Light-duty applications. |
| 20 | 0.039 | Up to 1.35 lbs/ft | Light framing and small spans. |
Gauges 12 through 20 let you match the purlin to the load and span. The heavier gauges (12 and 14) suit large structural applications and heavy roofing loads, while 18 and 20 gauge fit lighter framing and short spans where weight and cost matter most.
Finishes and coatings
| Finish | Details |
|---|---|
| Galvanized G60 | Zinc coating of 0.6 oz/ft². Recommended for general environments. |
| Galvanized G90 | Zinc coating of 0.9 oz/ft². Ideal for highly corrosive environments. |
| Prime-Painted | Provides a base coat for additional protection or paint adhesion. |
| Bare Steel | Unfinished; typically for indoor use or controlled environments. |
Galvanized (G60 and G90) and prime-painted finishes are offered on C purlins. Use G60 for general environments for corrosion protection. G90 adds a heavier zinc coating for coastal or high-humidity settings. Prime-painted gives a base coat for jobs that need further coating.
Material and finish options
Our C purlins use 55 KSI high-strength steel. Finishes include corrosion-resistant galvanizing that meets ANSI standards, paint for a tailored appearance, and bare steel for custom applications, each designed to boost durability and performance on Sarasota projects.
Custom lengths
Lengths start at 6′-0″ for smaller jobs and stretch to 40′-0″ for large construction. We cut each piece precisely, so the purlins fit well and little material is wasted on Sarasota job sites.
C Purlin features
High strength-to-weight ratio, easy installation, and corrosion-resistant finishes make our C purlins a good fit for industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and commercial roofing and wall systems.
High Strength-to-Weight Ratio
Carries heavy loads yet stays light, which lowers structural dead load and makes handling and installation easier.
Easy and Fast Installation
A lightweight, symmetrical section cuts labor hours and simplifies erection in roof and wall systems.
Galvanized or Prime-Painted Finish
Choose G60 or G90 galvanized, or prime-painted, for better durability and corrosion resistance.
Ideal for Custom Applications
Works across industrial buildings, solar panels, agricultural structures, and many other commercial structural uses.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Conforms to Steel Deck Institute and ANSI guidelines for quality and code compliance.
Versatile Design Options
Sizes from C4x2 to C12x3 and gauges 12 to 20 cover a wide spread of structural needs and loads.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- C purlins should be installed perpendicular to the primary structural supports.
- Anchor them at every support by bolt, weld, or self-drilling screw.
- Purlins that overlap are secured with bolts or screws at 12" o.c.
Fasteners and attachments
- Connect to primary frames with ½" diameter bolts.
- Fasten along supports with #12 self-drilling screws at 6" o.c., and at overlaps with the same screws at 12" o.c.
- Secure overlapping joints using #12 self-drilling screws at 12" o.c.
Confirm the profile, gauge, span, loads and connections against your project drawings and the applicable product load tables before ordering.
Applications
Roof and Wall Structural Framing
A strong choice for commercial and industrial buildings, supporting roofing and wall cladding. Works in both vented and non-vented structures.
Mezzanine and Racking Support
Its strength suits mezzanine floors and industrial racking. Warehouses and factories that need durable structural support benefit most.
Standards and product documentation
Design and performance of the C purlin follow SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications, held to a high standard.
C Purlin questions
What are C purlins, and where are they used?
A C purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member in the shape of the letter 'C'. It mostly provides structural support for roofs and walls in industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings.
C purlin versus Z purlin: what is the difference?
A C purlin's symmetrical 'C' shape brings strength and stability, which is ideal for simple spans. A Z purlin's 'Z' shape allows overlapping, which suits longer continuous spans that need extra rigidity.
In what gauges and materials can I get C purlins?
They come in gauges 12 to 20, made of galvanized steel (G60/G90) or prime-painted steel depending on project requirements.
What advantages do C purlins offer?
Advantages include high structural strength in a lightweight profile, easy installation from a standardized design, versatility across construction types, and corrosion resistance when galvanized. Durability and low maintenance also keep them cost-efficient.
Is it possible to get custom C purlins in Sarasota?
Yes. Custom C purlins are made to length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish, following your project specifications.
Z Purlin
For roof and wall applications, Z purlin offers superior load-bearing capacity, and its overlapping design carries longer spans. Gauges 12–18 are available, the product meets ANSI standards, and G60 and G90 galvanized finishes are offered.
Dimensions and profile
| Property | Dimension |
|---|---|
| Commercial Name | Z Purlin |
| Gauge | 12 to 18 |
| Thickness | 0.047" to 0.094" |
| Weights | 1.94 to 6.78 lbs/ft |
| Size Range | Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 |
| Web Depths | 6 to 12 inches |
| Flanges | 2.5 to 3 inches |
Sizes range from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3, and web depths measure 6 to 12 inches. Gauges 12 through 18 (0.047" to 0.094" thick) weigh 1.94 to 6.78 lbs/ft. Flange widths are 2.5 to 3 inches, with lip dimensions up to 0.787 inches.
Sizes, thicknesses and weights
| Purlin Size | Thickness | Weight (lbs/ft) | Gauge | Web | Flange | Lip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z12x3-12 | 0.094 | 6.78 | 12 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z12x3-14 | 0.075 | 5.4 | 14 | 12 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z10x3-12 | 0.094 | 5.48 | 12 | 10 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z10x3-14 | 0.075 | 4.37 | 14 | 10 | 3 | 0.709 |
| Z8x3-12 | 0.094 | 4.87 | 12 | 8 | 3 | 0.787 |
| Z8x3-14 | 0.075 | 3.86 | 14 | 8 | 3 | 0.709 |
| Z8x3-16 | 0.059 | 3.02 | 16 | 8 | 3 | 0.591 |
| Z6x2.5-12 | 0.094 | 3.83 | 12 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.709 |
| Z6x2.5-14 | 0.075 | 3.03 | 14 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.669 |
| Z6x2.5-16 | 0.059 | 2.41 | 16 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.630 |
| Z6x2.5-18 | 0.047 | 1.94 | 18 | 6 | 2.5 | 0.591 |
Gauges and thicknesses
| Gauge | Bare steel thickness (in) | Weight (lbs/ft) | Typical applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 0.094 | Up to 6.78 lbs/ft | Heavy structural applications, large spans. |
| 14 | 0.075 | Up to 5.4 lbs/ft | Standard commercial structural support. |
| 16 | 0.059 | Up to 3.02 lbs/ft | Medium-duty roof and wall support. |
| 18 | 0.047 | Up to 1.94 lbs/ft | Light-duty applications and agricultural buildings. |
Gauges 12 through 18 allow you to match load and span needs. Use the heavier gauges (12 and 14) for large structural applications. Gauges 16 and 18 are for medium to light-duty work in commercial and agricultural structures.
Finishes and coatings
| Finish | Details |
|---|---|
| Galvanized G60 | Zinc coating of 0.6 oz/ft². Recommended for general environments. |
| Galvanized G90 | Zinc coating of 0.9 oz/ft². Ideal for highly corrosive environments. |
| Prime-Painted | Provides a base coat for additional protection or paint adhesion. |
| Bare Steel | Unfinished; typically for indoor use or controlled environments. |
Galvanized (G60 and G90) and prime-painted finishes are available on Z purlins. G60 resists corrosion in general environments. G90 has an enhanced zinc coating for coastal or high-humidity applications. A prime-painted Z purlin carries a protective base coat for projects that need additional coatings.
Material and finish options
We offer Z purlins in high-strength 55 KSI steel. You can select corrosion-resistant galvanized finishes that meet ANSI standards, painted options for tailored aesthetics, or bare steel for custom applications, all intended to improve durability and performance in Sarasota and beyond.
Custom lengths
From 6′-0″ lengths on smaller projects to long spans of up to 40′-0″ on larger ones, we supply every dimension with precision and efficiency. Our custom length service gives an optimal fit and minimal waste.
Z Purlin features
Our Z purlins combine superior load-bearing capacity with an overlapping design for extended spans and corrosion-resistant finishes, making them ideal for large-scale commercial, industrial, and agricultural roofing and wall systems in Sarasota.
Superior Load-Bearing Capacity
Engineered for higher structural loads, with an overlapping design that provides continuous-span efficiency.
Overlapping for Extended Spans
Overlapping and interlocking at intermediate supports, Z purlins behave like a continuous beam and are more efficient over longer distances.
Corrosion-Resistant Finishes
Durable G60 and G90 galvanized or prime-painted finishes resist harsh environmental conditions.
Cost-Effective
Fewer intermediate supports and longer spans save material and labor on large-scale roofing and wall systems.
Compliance with SDI Standards
Guidelines from the Steel Deck Institute and ANSI are followed, ensuring quality and code compliance.
Versatile Applications
Sizes Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 and gauges 12–18 support commercial, industrial, and agricultural structures.
Installation and connections
Installation practices
- Install Z Purlins perpendicular to the primary structural supports.
- Anchor at each support using bolts, welds, or self-drilling screws.
- Overlap and interlock purlins at intermediate supports, secured at 12" o.c.
Fasteners and attachments
- Connect to primary frames with ½" diameter bolts.
- Fasten along supports with #12 self-drilling screws at 6" o.c., and at overlaps with the same screws at 12" o.c.
- Secure overlapping joints using #12 self-drilling screws at 12" o.c.
Confirm the profile, gauge, span, loads and connections against your project drawings and the applicable product load tables before ordering.
Applications
Long-Span Roofing Systems
Large commercial and industrial roofs that need continuous spans and fewer intermediate supports are a natural fit. The overlapping design makes the most of structural efficiency along long roof runs.
Continuous Wall Cladding Support
As continuous wall girts, Z purlins hold up metal cladding on industrial, commercial, and agricultural buildings, and the interlocking profile adds strong lateral stability.
Standards and product documentation
Compliance with SDI (Steel Deck Institute) specifications means the Z purlin meets high standards of design and performance.
Z Purlin questions
What is a Z purlin used for?
A Z purlin is a cold-formed steel structural member shaped like the letter 'Z'. Roof purlins and wall girts in commercial, industrial, and agricultural metal buildings are its main uses.
What does a Z purlin do better than a C purlin?
It overlaps and interlocks at intermediate supports, which creates continuous-beam behavior. Compared with simple-span C purlins, that means greater efficiency and load capacity across longer spans.
Which sizes and gauges are available for Z purlins?
They run from Z6x2.5 to Z12x3 in gauges 12 through 18, with web depths from 6 to 12 inches and flanges from 2.5 to 3 inches.
What finishes can I get on Z purlins?
G60 and G90 galvanized finishes protect against corrosion, and prime-painted finishes are offered for projects needing additional coatings.
Do you offer custom Z purlins in Sarasota?
Yes. We make custom Z purlins to your length (6' to 40'), gauge, and finish, in line with project specifications.
Before you order
Order Steel Purlins for your Sarasota project
Share your drawings or a material list and our team will check quantities, profiles and cut lengths. We also prepare takeoffs and shop drawings, then send pricing and delivery options for the Sarasota job site.
Start your quoteWhat we need to quote your project
- Your Sarasota project address and when you need material on site.
- Drawings or a material list with quantities and cut lengths.
- Specified profile, dimensions, gauge and finish.
- Connection details, load tables and any supporting documentation.
How We Work
We Guide You Through the Process
From manufacturing to delivery, we ensure precision, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards.
Takeoff and Shop Drawings Services
We provide specialized takeoff services for accurate quotations and detailed shop drawings to produce optimized cutting lists for sheets, ensuring efficient execution and waste-free outcomes in your projects.
Manufacture
We manufacture metal decks to SDI and ANSI standards, ensuring strength, durability, and compliance. We provide custom lengths and high-precision fabrication for optimized performance in roof, floor, and form deck applications.
Swift Deliveries & Nationwide Reach
While based in South Florida, we serve clients nationwide, ensuring quality, efficiency, and timely deliveries across the U.S., reflecting our commitment to excellence without boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you supply steel purlins in Sarasota?
Yes. We deliver C and Z purlins to Sarasota with 1-day delivery available. Contact us at 305-760-2575.
What is the difference between C and Z purlins?
Z purlins overlap and interlock at supports for continuous-span efficiency. C purlins suit simple-span applications where continuity is not required.
What is the function of a steel purlin?
A steel purlin supports roof and wall sheeting. It transfers loads from the cladding to the main structural frame and runs horizontally across the rafters or columns of the building.
Which purlin types do most buildings use?
Most use C or Z Purlins. C Purlins are chosen for simple, non-overlapping spans. Z Purlins overlap and interlock to form continuous spans, giving better structural efficiency over long distances.
What distinguishes a C Purlin from a Z Purlin?
At intermediate supports, Z purlins can overlap and interlock, giving more efficient continuous beam behavior. C purlins are used in simple spans where that continuity is not required.
Are purlins suitable for roof and wall support?
They are. C and Z purlins serve as roof purlins for roof panels and as wall girts for wall cladding, which is why metal building systems use them so widely. Contractors in Sarasota use both.
Which materials and coatings can I order?
Galvanized steel with G90 or G60 coatings is available for every purlin, giving corrosion resistance and long-term performance in commercial, industrial, and agricultural environments.